Insurance & Excess Information

Vehicle protection and damage liability can seem complex. This guide explains key concepts such as damage excess, liability limits, and what questions to ask before you collect your vehicle.

1. Introduction to Rental Vehicle Liability

When hiring a vehicle, it is important to understand your financial liability in the event of damage, theft, or third-party incidents during your rental period.

2. What is Damage Excess?

Damage excess (also called damage liability) represents the maximum out-of-pocket amount you may be required to pay toward vehicle repairs, loss, or assessment fees if an incident occurs while the vehicle is in your possession.

3. Standard Liability and Damage Excess

Every rental includes a standard damage excess amount set out in your rental agreement. This amount applies per incident unless an excess reduction option has been selected and accepted.

4. Excess Reduction Options

Horizontal Traders may offer excess reduction packages that allow drivers to reduce their maximum damage excess for an additional fee. Details of available options are provided at booking.

5. Single Vehicle Accidents vs Multi-Vehicle Incidents

Different liability terms or excess amounts may apply to single-vehicle incidents (such as hitting an object, animal, or reversing into a pole) compared to multi-vehicle collisions where another party is involved.

6. Overhead and Underbody Damage

Damage to the vehicle’s roof, underbody, or chassis often falls outside standard excess limits. Drivers must exercise caution when driving in areas with low clearance or uneven terrain.

7. Tyre and Windscreen Coverage

Tyre punctures, sidewall damage, and windscreen chips or cracks may be subject to specific replacement costs or optional protection cover.

8. Water Damage and Submersion

Damage caused by water immersion, flood waters, or driving through deep puddles is strictly excluded from standard excess limits.

9. Off-Road and Unsealed Road Exclusions

Unless specifically authorised in writing for your vehicle, driving on unsealed roads, tracks, or beaches voids standard damage liability cover.

10. Third-Party Property Damage

Rental agreements include third-party property damage coverage, subject to compliance with the rental terms and payment of the applicable excess.

11. Security Bond and Credit Card Pre-Authorisation

A security deposit or credit card pre-authorisation is held during the rental to cover potential excess, fuel, or incidental charges.

12. Incident Reporting Procedures

In the event of an accident or damage, drivers must report the incident to Horizontal Traders as soon as possible and complete an incident report form.

13. Police Report Requirements

A police report is required for all accidents involving major damage, third-party injuries, or theft. Obtain the police report reference number for insurance processing.

14. Roadside Assistance Coverage

Basic breakdown assistance is provided for mechanical faults. Driver-induced issues (such as keys locked inside or running out of fuel) may incur call-out charges.

15. Theft and Lost Keys

If the vehicle or keys are stolen, report it to the police and Horizontal Traders immediately. Key replacement and lock re-coding fees apply for lost keys.

16. Personal Belongings inside the Vehicle

Personal effects, luggage, or equipment left inside the vehicle are not covered by the vehicle rental agreement. Drivers should rely on travel or personal insurance.

17. Questions to Ask Before You Collect

Before driving away, confirm your excess amount, check what is included in your cover, and verify roadside contact numbers.